New camping leader qualification

On 1^st March Mountain Training launched a new qualification, the Camping Leader. The new qualification is a result of feedback from user groups within the sector (our stakeholders) who wanted a supervisory camping qualification that did not require a walking leadership qualification as a prerequisite.

Who’s it for?

The Camping Leader qualification is designed for the many thousands of volunteers, teachers and support staff who are involved in supervising groups at campsites who are not involved in running their daytime activities and do not intend to pursue a walking qualification. It is ideal for those involved with the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, the President’s Award and Ten Tors training among other things. The skills covered apply to groups using commercial campsites as well as wild camping. No previous Mountain Training qualifications are necessary, just some personal experience of camping (five camps) and supervising camping (two camps).

People who already hold a Mountain Training walking leadership qualification can access the Camping Leader to qualify them to take groups camping in terrain within the scope of their walking qualification i.e. journey and camp as a Lowland Leader or a Hill and Moorland Leader. It could also be used by people with paddling or cycling leadership qualifications.

John Cousins, Chief Executive of Mountain Training UK and Ireland said, “We’re excited to be launching a truly accessible qualification that will support the delivery of camping activities for hundreds of thousands of young people and adults in the UK and Ireland. We have listened to feedback from across the sector and are confident this new Camping Leader qualification will provide an opportunity for more and more people to get involved in supervising camping.”

“The novel use of an optional online training course followed by a one day practical assessment is an effort to provide potential Camping Leaders with a flexible route to qualification which is likely to appeal to those with lots of experience as well as those who are new to camping. Our approved providers are looking forward to welcoming people to the scheme this spring and beyond.”

What does it cover?

The syllabus covers five topics: leadership and group management, planning and supervision, teaching and learning skills, camping equipment, camping food and cooking. With regards to the syllabus, the Camping Leader includes more about developing a candidate’s teaching and leadership competency and does not include remote supervision.

Online training and practical assessment

We are utilising an online learning platform to deliver the training element for the first time in Mountain Training’s history. This will enable those with lots of experience to refresh their knowledge and those new to supervising camping to take their time understanding and developing the required skills. It also means the practical assessment can be covered in one day which is likely to be readily accessible for volunteers and teachers.

How do you get started?

Prospective Camping Leaders must be at least 17 years old and can register for the qualification through our Candidate Management System at a one-off cost of £20. The registration confirmation email includes a link to the online learning course which can be completed in your own time. You can then book an assessment with one of our approved providers at a time and location that suits you.

What can you do with it?

The scope of the qualification covers supervising camping in a variety of campsites, all with vehicular access, including land with no facilities and commercial campsites offering a range of facilities.